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(Des Moines, IA) -- Hot air balloons will be tethered in Des Moines and surrounding areas Saturday night. The night-glow balloons will be near retailers, restaurants, and attractions. Look for balloons near Court Avenue, downtown Des Moines, as well as in Urbandale, Altoona, Ankeny, Johnston, Cumming, and Carlisle. Glowing hot air balloons will be stationed in different locations throughout the region from 6 – 8 p.m., weather permitting.
Final locations will be announced shortly before the event on Saturday, June 1. Tentative locations include:
- Iowa State Capitol Complex – Des Moines
- Mandelbaum Grass Lot – Court Avenue
- Living History Farms – Urbandale
- Outlets of Des Moines – Altoona
- DMACC Ankeny Campus – Ankeny
- Johnston Town Center – Johnston
- Mayor Tom Becker Park – Cumming
- Central Iowa Insurance Agency – Carlisle
Balloon hunters are encouraged to post photos of the glowing balloons on social media and include #DSMUSA. Participants can earn a chance to win a ride in a hot air balloon at the National Balloon Classic, scheduled for July 26 – Aug. 3, 2024, by posting their hot air balloon photos from the event on social media using #DSMUSA. Participants will be limited to one contest entry.
“The Great DSM Hot Air Balloon Hunt provides residents and guests a unique opportunity to add surprise and delight to their Saturday evening. We’re excited to expand this opportunity regionally and shine a light on additional communities,” said Molly Atkins, Events Specialist at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “The activity will give participants opportunities to explore and support small, local businesses, including restaurants and local stores while enjoying this activation.”